Four individuals from Kentucky have been charged with attempting to export numerous handguns to Iraq, hidden within the door panels of two vehicles, following an extensive investigation involving multiple federal agencies.

The men, who are based in Louisville, were apprehended earlier this month. Authorities have identified them as Haider Lazem, 41, Hasan Wasak, 27, Abdullah Alsajee, 30, and Haitham Al-Dulaimi, 30— the latter allegedly orchestrating the export arrangements.

It is claimed that Lazem, Wasak, and Alsajee acquired the firearms from various gun shops and exhibitions throughout Kentucky, subsequently delivering them to Al-Dulaimi. Reportedly, Al-Dulaimi concealed the firearms within packing materials, embedding them into the door panels of a Kia Forte and a Hyundai Elantra. The shipment, however, was intercepted by law enforcement in January, resulting in the recovery of 38 handguns along with magazines.

An indictment was made public in October, bringing charges against Lazem, Wasak, and Alsajee for conspiracy to breach U.S. export regulations, filing false statements, and committing fraud. Al-Dulaimi is also facing similar charges, including conspiracy, fraud, smuggling, and illegally dealing firearms without a license, as indicated by the law enforcement agencies.

Legal representatives for two of the defendants declined to provide comments regarding the situation as reported by local media. All four individuals have been released from custody after surrendering their passports. If found guilty on all counts, Al-Dulaimi could face up to 40 years in prison, while the other three defendants could face sentences of up to 35 years each.